For pilgrims who want to reach Lord Venkateswara's abode on foot but don't have the time or stamina for the longer traditional climb, Srivari Mettu is the answer. This ancient stone stairway is the shorter of the two footpaths to Tirumala — steeper, quicker, and steeped in legend. Many devotees believe it is the very route the Lord himself walked. This guide covers everything you need: how to reach it, timings, the exact number of steps, distance, token procedure, facilities, and practical tips for a smooth trek.
Table of Contents
What Is Srivari Mettu?
Srivari Mettu is a pedestrian footpath that begins near Srinivasa Mangapuram, close to Chandragiri, and ascends through the Seshachalam Hills to reach Tirumala. It is considered older than the more popular Alipiri Mettu route.
The name itself carries deep meaning. "Srivari Mettu" translates to "the steps of the Lord", and "Mettu" also evokes the sense of the Lord's footwear. Following this tradition, many devotees climb with their shoes carried on their heads as a mark of reverence, since they are walking the same path the deity is believed to have taken.
According to legend, after marrying Sri Padmavathi Devi, Lord Venkateswara was asked to remain at Srinivasa Mangapuram for six months. It is said that he travelled between Srinivasa Mangapuram and Tirumala along this very route — which is why the path is held to be especially sacred.
Quick Facts at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Total steps | Approximately 2,388 steps |
| Total distance | About 2.1 km |
| Climbing time | 1.5 to 2.5 hours (varies by fitness/age) |
| Timings | 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM |
| Starting point | Srinivasa Mangapuram (Sri Krishna Devaraya Sadan) |
| Distance from Tirupati | 16–20 km |
| Night walking | Not permitted (strictly day-only) |
| Path cover | Fully roofed against sun and rain |
| Difficulty | Shorter but steeper than Alipiri |
How Many Steps and How Long Is the Distance?
Tirupati Balaji Sarva Darshan (Free) — Complete Guide 2026
The Srivari Mettu path has approximately 2,388 steps (some sources round it to around 2,400) covering a distance of about 2.1 kilometres from the base to the Tirumala ring road.
Compared to Alipiri Mettu — which has around 3,550 steps over roughly 9 km — Srivari Mettu is dramatically shorter. However, this comes at a cost: the path is steeper, with a sharper elevation gain. A reasonably fit adult can complete it in about 1.5 to 2 hours, while elderly pilgrims or families with children should plan for 2 to 3 hours including rest breaks.
How to Reach Srivari Mettu from Tirupati
Srivari Mettu lies near Srinivasa Mangapuram, around 16–20 km from Tirupati city. There are three main ways to get there:
1. Free TTD Bus (recommended) TTD operates a free bus service from the Tirupati Bus Stand and Railway Station directly to the Srivari Mettu entrance. These buses run frequently — roughly every 30 minutes — and pass by Alipiri on the way. This is the easiest and most economical option for most pilgrims.
2. APSRTC Bus via Srinivasa Mangapuram You can take an APSRTC bus heading towards Rangampet or Madanapalle and get down at Srinivasa Mangapuram, then hire an auto-rickshaw to the Srivari Mettu entrance. This option is best only if you are already familiar with the local bus stops, otherwise it can be confusing.
3. Private Taxi, Auto, or Jeep Private taxis and autos run directly from Tirupati to Srivari Mettu. This is the most convenient door-to-door option but also the most expensive — and drivers sometimes charge premium rates, so confirm the fare before starting.
Tip: If you are coming from Chandragiri, Srivari Mettu is the closest footpath — only about 6 km away — making it the natural choice.
Srivari Mettu Timings
The Srivari Mettu footpath is open from 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily. Unlike Alipiri Mettu, which stays open 24 hours, night walking is strictly not permitted on Srivari Mettu due to wildlife movement (leopards and bears have been reported) in the surrounding Seshachalam forest.
A few important timing notes:
- Vehicle entry to the Srivari Mettu base is typically stopped from around 4:30 PM onwards, so plan to arrive well before this.
- On special occasions such as Vaikunta Ekadasi and the annual Garuda Seva, the path may remain open for extended or 24-hour access — but token rules change on these days.
- Start early in the morning for the coolest, safest, and least crowded climb.
Divya Darshan Token — Priority Darshan for Walkers
One of the biggest advantages of walking to Tirumala is eligibility for the Divya Darshan token, a free biometric token that gives foot-pilgrims quicker access to darshan than the general free (Sarva Darshan) queue.
Here's how it works on the Srivari Mettu route:
- Where issued: Tokens are issued at the path entrance, with a daily quota of around 5,000–6,000 tokens.
- When: Issuing typically starts from 6:00 AM and continues until the daily quota runs out.
- ID required: Carry your Aadhaar card or a valid photo ID. A photo is captured at the time of issue and verified later.
- Non-transferable: The token is valid only for the person it is issued to.
- Verification checkpoint: There is a second-level token verification (stamping) point around step 1,200 (some sources cite step 2,050). You must get your token scanned/stamped here on your darshan date. If you skip this, the token becomes invalid and you'll be diverted to the general queue.
Important: Walking does not automatically give you a shorter queue — you still enter through the Divya/SSD darshan line. Also note that Divya Darshan tokens are usually not issued on peak days like Vaikunta Ekadasi, Vaikunta Dwadasi, Garuda Seva day, and New Year.
Facilities Along the Route
TTD has developed Srivari Mettu well for pilgrim comfort:
- Covered pathway: Almost the entire route is roofed with concrete shelters, protecting you from harsh sun and rain.
- Drinking water & restrooms: Filtered drinking water stations and washrooms are available, particularly in the lower stretch (up to around the 420th step). Carry a water bottle as facilities thin out higher up.
- How to Book TTD Special Entry (₹300) Darshan Online — Step-by-Step Guide, Dress Code, Entry Point & Guidelines
- Free luggage transport: A free luggage counter is available at the entry point (near Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple). Deposit heavy bags and collect them at Tirumala later — the collection point is near MBC-37 in Tirumala.
- Parking: Free parking for private vehicles is available at the Srivari Mettu base; vehicles can be collected the next day.
- Resting sheds & viewpoints: Sheltered bays with stone sculptures, resting spots, and scenic forest viewpoints line the climb.
- Small shrines: You'll pass small temples dedicated to Lord Hanuman and other deities along the way.
- Safety: Security personnel, lighting, and medical assistance are stationed throughout.
Note: Unlike Alipiri, there are no eat-out stalls along Srivari Mettu. Carry your own snacks and water.
Srivari Mettu vs Alipiri Mettu — Which Should You Choose?
| Feature | Srivari Mettu | Alipiri Mettu |
|---|---|---|
| Steps | ~2,388 | ~3,550 |
| Distance | ~2.1 km | ~9 km |
| Time | 1.5–2.5 hrs | 3–5 hrs |
| Gradient | Steeper | Gradual, easier |
| Timings | 6 AM – 5:30 PM | Open 24 hrs (restrictions after 2 PM) |
| Starting point | Srinivasa Mangapuram | Alipiri, Tirupati |
| Best for | Quick, direct climb | Scenic, gradual, first-timers |
Choose Srivari Mettu if you are short on time, reasonably fit, or starting from the Chandragiri side and want the fastest ascent. Choose Alipiri Mettu if you prefer a longer, gentler, more scenic climb — ideal for first-timers, elders, and families.
Practical Tips for Your Trek
- Start early (by 6–7 AM) to beat the heat and the crowds.
- Carry water and light snacks — there are no food stalls on this route.
- Wear comfortable footwear and clothing for the climb; carry traditional dress (dhoti/saree) to change into before darshan if you wish.
- Bring a light shawl or jacket — Tirumala can be cold in the early morning and evening.
- Keep your Aadhaar/photo ID handy for the Divya Darshan token.
- Use the free luggage service so you climb light.
- Don't miss the token stamping checkpoint — an unstamped token is invalid.
- Follow the tradition of carrying your shoes on your head as a mark of devotion, if you wish to observe it.
- Tirumala Darshan Guide: All Darshan Types Explained
Frequently Asked Questions
How many steps are there in Srivari Mettu? There are approximately 2,388 steps on the Srivari Mettu footpath, covering about 2.1 km to reach Tirumala.
What are Srivari Mettu timings? The path is open from 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily. Night walking is not permitted.
How long does it take to climb Srivari Mettu? A fit adult takes about 1.5 to 2 hours; elderly pilgrims and families should allow 2 to 3 hours.
Is Srivari Mettu shorter than Alipiri? Yes. Srivari Mettu (~2,388 steps, 2.1 km) is much shorter than Alipiri Mettu (~3,550 steps, ~9 km), but it is steeper.
Do I get free darshan for walking Srivari Mettu? Yes. Foot-pilgrims are eligible for a free Divya Darshan token, issued at the entrance (around 5,000–6,000 daily), which gives quicker access than the general queue. Carry a valid photo ID.
How do I reach Srivari Mettu from Tirupati? The easiest way is the free TTD bus from Tirupati Bus Stand or Railway Station. You can also take an APSRTC bus to Srinivasa Mangapuram and an auto, or hire a private taxi.
